The Daily Corporate Desk
Biman Bangladesh Airlines is set to sign a landmark aircraft purchase agreement with Boeing, marking the largest fleet expansion initiative in the airline’s history.
The agreement, valued at approximately $3.7 billion (Tk37,000 crore), involves the purchase of 14 aircraft, including eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two 787-9 Dreamliners, and four 737-8 MAX jets. The signing ceremony is scheduled to take place at a Dhaka hotel, with senior government officials, diplomats, and aviation stakeholders expected to attend.
According to officials, the acquisition is aimed at modernising Biman’s fleet, expanding long-haul connectivity, and strengthening regional operations amid rising passenger demand. The wide-body Dreamliners will primarily support routes to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, while the narrow-body 737 MAX aircraft are intended for short- and medium-haul services.
The move comes as Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport prepares to launch its third terminal—an upgrade widely seen as critical to Bangladesh’s ambition of becoming a regional aviation hub.
The deal also concludes years of competition between Boeing and Airbus for Biman’s next major order. While earlier policy discussions had leaned toward Airbus aircraft, the interim government ultimately opted for Boeing, citing strategic and economic considerations.
Officials indicated that the payment structure will be spread over a long-term period, potentially extending up to 20 years, easing financial pressure on the airline. The government will provide a sovereign guarantee to facilitate the purchase, ensuring access to favorable financing terms.
Currently operating with around 19 aircraft on international routes, Biman plans to expand its fleet to 47 aircraft in the coming years to meet growing demand and enhance network capacity. The first of the newly ordered aircraft is expected to be delivered in October 2031, with the remaining deliveries scheduled through 2035.
The expansion is part of broader efforts to transform Biman into a more competitive and profitable airline while strengthening Bangladesh’s position in global aviation.
Source: The Daily Star
